The world of the Internet has a lot to offer us, but it can also create quite a few problems for us. There are billions of users who access the internet every day. Most consumers like to have their media live streamed, and there are also some of us who download content to watch offline. As for users who like to download content via torrents or other means, they need to understand the level of risk they can put their devices at. So, to have a better and safer experience, I have put together a guide on how to ensure that a file is safe before downloading. Let’s get started!
8 ways to make sure a file is safe before downloading
There are also several ways to make sure a file is safe before downloading it. The following methods can of course be done by non-specialized users, so let's go over them in detail.
Check Https protocols
The first thing you need to check before downloading files from a particular website is that it has an Http or Https protocol. If the website has Https protocol, then it is safe for you and you can download your favorite files without having the worry of malware.
Always download Authenticated material
There are millions of users who fall into the trap of hackers and download free applications. As there are some of the online stores that offer this. So, the best way to check if a version is safe is to search for it yourself and see if any other website has uploaded such software or applications. If not, then you should reconsider downloading illegal versions of applications which may only contain viruses.
See “Comments”
Before downloading a file, always check the reviews and comments provided by others. As this is the best source to know whether an app is fake or not.
See attachments
While installing the software, the user should check what else the software has inside its package. For example, many of the media players come with codec packs that are not useful to many users. Even for some of us who do not know why these codec files are created. This is the reason why if you do not know the specific function of a file that is going to be installed on your device try to avoid installing it before it is too late.
Install software from well-known publishers
If you have just downloaded an .exe file and opened its installation. Your operating system will ask you to give it your permission to install it. However, you should read the entire dialog box that is presented to you. There is a section that tells you the name of the Publisher. If the name seems unfamiliar, then you should not have much trust in this software and should avoid it for the security of your device.
Download VirusTotal Extension
The best and easiest way to make sure that a file is safe before downloading it is by accessing the VirusToatl extension for your browser. Such an extension has been created for the safety of the users. Its services can be accessed without any hassle, users only need to right-click on the file link that they are going to download.
Always scan before installing
If you have downloaded software from the Internet, before installing it, try scanning it with an antivirus. Norton antivirus is good enough to do the job for you. But there are a whole variety of such applications on the market so it would be a good idea to try a few of them. However, Windows Firewall can also be useful in providing such installations as well.
Try downloading from trusted “stores”
Always look for platforms that are fully certified and trusted by many users. Android users use the Google Play Store, iPhone have access to the App Store , and Windows users prefer to get the services of the Windows Store. So try to download applications that are available on official and trusted platforms.
